Farmers to Become Energy Providers: Up to 90% Subsidy on Solar Pumps Under KUSUM-B Scheme

For farmers in Madhya Pradesh, dependence on conventional electricity for agriculture is set to become a thing of the past. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the state government is actively promoting solar energy to provide farmers with affordable and sustainable irrigation solutions. As part of this initiative, the Pradhan Mantri KUSUM-B Scheme is being implemented in the state under the name “Pradhan Mantri Krishak Mitra Surya Yojana.”

This scheme, solar pumps will be installed in the fields of 52,000 farmers across Madhya Pradesh. This will not only eliminate electricity bills for irrigation but will also enable farmers to earn additional income by selling surplus solar power.

Current Status of the Scheme:

As part of the Chief Minister’s initiative, 34,600 Letters of Award have already been issued, and nearly 33,000 work orders have been released for installing solar pumps in farmers’ fields. The scheme is open to farmers who wish to install solar pumps on their agricultural land.

Once the solar pumps are installed, farmers will not remain just food producers but will also become energy providers. Excess electricity generated can be used for personal needs or sold to the government for additional income. Moreover, maintenance of the solar pumps for five years will be the responsibility of the installation agency, ensuring farmers do not face technical issues.

Cost of Solar Pumps and Subsidy Details:

KUSUM-B scheme, solar pumps with capacities ranging from 1 HP to 7.5 HP are eligible for up to 90% subsidy. Farmers are required to pay only about 10% of the total cost. Around 60% of the cost will be covered through a farmer loan, with the state government bearing the interest burden. The remaining 30% subsidy will be provided by the central government based on benchmark costs. This subsidy structure applies equally to SC, ST, OBC, and General category farmers.

Farmer Contribution Based on Pump Capacity:

Solar pumps ranging from 1 HP to 7.5 HP are available under the scheme. The farmer’s contribution varies depending on pump capacity and controller type, ranging from ₹12,427 to ₹78,331.

Eligibility Criteria and Key Conditions:

1. The applicant must be a permanent resident of Madhya Pradesh.
2. Ownership of a minimum of 3 hectares of land is mandatory.
3. Pump capacity must be 3 HP, 5 HP, or 7.5 HP.
4. The farmer must have a temporary electricity connection.
5. No additional subsidy will be provided for electric pumps on land where a solar pump is installed.
6. The farmer must submit a self-declaration stating that no electric pump is currently operational in the field. Providing false information may lead to disqualification.

Required Documents for Application:

1. Receipt of temporary electricity connection
2. Aadhaar card and land ownership documents
3. Bank passbook, mobile number, and passport-size photograph

Applications without these documents will not be accepted.

How to Apply Online for Solar Pumps:

Farmers interested in installing solar pumps with subsidy can apply online by visiting cmsolarpump.mp.gov.in. After submission, the concerned department will conduct a field inspection. Upon approval, the solar pump will be installed, and the subsidy amount will be transferred directly to the farmer’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Key Benefits of the KUSUM-B Scheme:

1. Complete relief from electricity bills
2. Reduced dependence on grid electricity for irrigation
3. Opportunity to earn extra income by selling surplus power
4. Adoption of modern and sustainable energy systems in agriculture
5. Five years of free maintenance
6. Boost to agricultural productivity and the rural economy

The Pradhan Mantri KUSUM-B Scheme is transforming the dream of solar-powered irrigation into reality, especially for small and marginal farmers. This initiative is expected to strengthen farmers’ financial stability while giving a fresh impetus to agriculture and the rural economy of Madhya Pradesh.

Where to Get More Information For detailed information, farmers can visit the official website of Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited at cmsolarpump.mp.gov.in or contact their nearest electricity distribution office.

FAQs – KUSUM-B Scheme:

Q1. What is the KUSUM-B Scheme?
It is a government scheme providing subsidized solar pumps to farmers for irrigation.

Q2. How much subsidy is available under KUSUM-B?
Farmers can get up to 90% subsidy on solar pumps.

Q3. Who is eligible for the scheme?
Farmers with at least 3 hectares of land and a temporary electricity connection in Madhya Pradesh.

Q4. Is maintenance free for solar pumps?
Yes, free maintenance for 5 years is included.

Q5. Where can farmers apply?
Applications can be submitted at https://cmsolarpump.mp.gov.in/.